With Halloween just around the corner, why not consider doing some ghoulish crafts with your children? One of my favorite crafts to do with the kids is Halloween candle making. Your kids will love it, and it is appropriate for any age group. You will need the following supplies to get started:

1. A pillar candle.
2. Some 'cut and carve' wax.
3. Some wax adhesive.
4. Halloween cookie cutters.
5. A shallow pan.

Heat your 'cut and carve' wax, and pour it into the shallow pan. Be sure that you fill the pan approximately 1/4 inch., and try to ensure your pan is on a level surface. Allow the wax to cool, but not until it has completely hardened.

After the wax has cooled somewhat, use your cookie cutters to produce your scary shapes. We like to use quite a variety of shapes and sizes. Try to arrange your shapes to maximize the use of the wax.

You can use other tools to produce different shapes. For instance, you can use drinking straws to produce eyes for your creepy monsters. Or you can use a small paring knife to make free form shapes. As always, be extra careful using sharp objects around the children.

Remove the cookie cutters, and allow the wax to harden completely. This will ensure that your cut-outs maintain their shape when you are working with them.

When the wax has cooled, start removing your shapes. Do this in the same manner as you would if you were making cookies. Feel free to use a spatula or another household utensil to assist. Do not worry if the excess wax breaks up'.you can always reheat it!

If you are using a round candle, you will need to shape the wax cut-out to fit the contour of the candle. We like to use a hair dryer to soften the wax enough to be pliable, but not enough to melt it. Place it directly on the side of the candle to shape it, but be careful not to break it.

Using your wax adhesive, cover the back of the cut-out. You can also use clear candle wax, but try to work fast because the wax will harden quickly. You can use a paint brush to apply the melted wax.

Now you are going to apply the cut-out to the candle. Try to place it in the correct spot on the candle. The cut-out will be difficult to move once the wax has started setting, and the candle may get damaged. That's it! You're finished! Trick or Treat!